When a person is unable to take in fluids orally, I. V. therapy becomes necessary. The patient is given fluids intravenously to replace lost fluids. Many times these fluids contain electrolytes (i.e., sodium, potassium, chloride) and/or sugars. I.V.s can be given on an inpatient basis over a period of days or on an outpatient basis over a period of 2-3 hours

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